Saturday, June 5, 2010

In this case, the problem is our addiction to the consumption of more and more stuff as an end in itself, which directly fuels our ongoing dependence on fossil fuels, which in turn is slowly destroying our planet.

Perhaps there’s a growing recognition that this is a problem. But recognition, though necessary, is not sufficient. Another thing needed is leadership. Somebody has to set the example for others to follow. In that case, why not use high-profile people who we're already looking at?

Our politicians are required (at least, in mature democracies) to publicly disclose their personal finances. So, why don’t we get them to disclose their energy footprint at home as well? This would give them an incentive to reduce their consumption (so as to look good in the eyes of the public) and would provide a powerful example for us all to follow.

A radical suggestion?

Maybe. But today, which is World Environment Day and which also happens to be day 47 of the man-made, ongoing BP oil disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, we should recognize that we need radical ideas and actions now, more than ever.

Welectricity Poll

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about this blog

ON GREEN ISLAND is a blog about energy sustainability in the Caribbean. Our aim is to have a discussion on matters relating to energy and the environment in this beautiful part of the world.

By doing this, we will raise awareness of what needs to be done to ensure a sustainable energy future for the Caribbean - and how we can all work to make it happen. Also visit theGREEN ISLAND INC website

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"Now, we have a choice to make. Future generations will look back, and they will ask what we did when we confronted this crisis. What will they say? Will they say that – once again – we failed to make the tough choices that lead to progress?"

Barack H Obama, President of the United States, on the eve of passage of his $787 billion economic stimulus bill